The multiple gadgets will definitely send technophiles and video game enthusiasts crazy. Every amenity usually associated with luxury vehicles has been incorporated in ergonomic, user-friendly fashion, including the advanced navigation system with XM satellite radio.

The most innovative feature, of course, is Nissan's Around View Monitor, which processes information from the four cameras positioned around the FX as well as the front and rear parking sensors to give the driver an overhead 360-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings. Thank God for these technologies, because the 2009 FX offers limited visibility, which results in significant blind spots.

I guess 007 now has a worthy crossover to safely take his lovely "Bond girl" to the suburbs.

Another advanced feature worth mentioning is the Intelligent Cruise Control, which operates from 0 to 144 km/h. It can completely stop the vehicle in city traffic before the driver actually has to intervene. I guess 007 now has a worthy crossover to safely take his lovely "Bond girl" to the suburbs, although they won't be able to bring a lot of gear due to the limited cargo room. The seats sure are comfortable, though, with a driving position that's highly reminiscent of a Porsche Cayenne.

Assaulting the road
Like its predecessor, the 2009 Infiniti FX offers a choice of two engines: a 303-hp V6 and a thundering V8 delivering 390 horsepower. What a weapon! Actually, it's the most powerful engine ever fitted to an Infiniti product.

Despite its 303 ponies and 262 lb-ft of torque, the 3.5L V6 does not seem quite hearty enough for the big FX; accelerations fail to meet expectations. On the other hand, the V8 transforms this vehicle into a rocket. A whopping 369 lb-ft of torque are transferred to the 21-inch Enkei wheels. It's such a good fit for the new FX that the latter averages 13 liters per 100 kilometers -- only 2 liters more than the V6.

The new 7-speed automatic transmission offers three different settings to enhance the driving experience. There's a traditional auto mode, a customized mode with memory and finally a manual mode with paddle shifters on the steering wheel allowing race car-like shifting.

The steering is precise just like it should and overall quite pleasant to work with. Handling and stability are improved thanks to the longer wheelbase and shorter overhangs. The use of aluminum in the doors optimizes weight distribution, allowing greater cornering performance. The FX attacks corners easily and confidently. The suspension is solid at all times, making this SUV one of the sportiest and most dynamic on the planet.

Conclusion
Infiniti found just the right mix of continuity and change with the 2009 FX. While displaying different personalities, both models keep making a commitment to extraordinary sportiness, luxury, driving pleasure and relative affordability.


Photo Credit : Infiniti